About the Major

The major in social policy and public service (SPPS) provides an interdisciplinary
perspective on the study of society, both at the individual and group level. Using
the knowledge and methods of all social science disciplines, a student majoring in
social policy and public service develops the skills to think clearly about social
concepts and issues.

Through SPPS, students can integrate a curriculum that focuses on governance, community
management, leadership, and social service. Grounded in research, the curriculum highlights
societal inequalities and partners with local non-profit and government agencies to
facilitate student learning and 300 hours of field work and internships. The non-profit
organizations provide students insights on agency practices and social services. They
also offer a partnership where students complete ethnographic research to gain professional
and research training. Further, the three-quarter field placement facilitates the
development of community skills, leadership, mentorship relationships with community
supervisors, and networking. Majors have the opportunity to use their classroom knowledge
in applied and individual learning experiences, such as internships, field studies,
or research with a faculty advisor.

The curriculum for the major exposes students to various social science methods and
topics, teaching applied computer-based research and statistical analyses; internship
experiences in community, public, and educational organizations; and a more in-depth
understanding of social science research and methodology. Ensuring student competency
in a specific area of interest, students can narrow their studies by choosing one
of three focus areas while completing their upper-division work: (1) Education, (2)
Governance, or (3) Health.

Learning Outcomes

Gain applied research (both quantitative and qualitative training) and analytical
skills (scientific and statistical fundamentals) to address social issues as critical
thinkers and problem solvers.

Ability to design and conduct a research project addressing a social issue in the
Social Sciences that will require data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

Have knowledge, awareness, and skills in relation to cultural competency as it relates
unrepresented and marginalized groups through theory, research, community leadership,
and public service.

Develop communication skills to write and articulate effectively when addressing an
issue providing contextualization and supporting points for complete and understanding
of the content and effective analysis of an outcome.

Personify community and managerial leadership, teamwork, and professional etiquette
while understanding organizational structures and behavior.

Instill in students the value, appreciation and ethical responsibility of community
investment, action research, and civic engagement